The unique partnership between the city's college and Flybe, Europe's largest regional airline won national recognition for the development of practical teaching and learning in a ceremony held in London attended by the Minister for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning.

Managers, student and staff representatives from Exeter College and Flybe joined colleges from across the country as the college was presented with the prestigious Association of Colleges Beacon Award for its challenging and stretching Flybe Engineering Diploma that delivers technical training in aerospace engineering.

Richard Atkins, Principal said, “We're very proud of this award since it evidences our strong partnership with Flybe and our commitment to ensure the college's courses meet the needs of our students and also the ever changing demands of industry. The four year industry based course develops underpinning knowledge and practical skills within a framework of vocational qualifications, a professional certificate and a Foundation Degree.”

Joining the team in London was Francesca Scriven, one of the first Flybe Aerospace Engineering 'graduates' due to finish her four year programme next year. She has already amassed an impressive set of qualifications as part of the course being one of only 8% of students nationally who successfully passed the industry's EASA exams at the first attempt.

Francesca, who travelled to London for the event said “I feel very privileged to be here as one of the Flybe students. It's an amazing job for life and it's great that the College and Flybe have won this accolade.”

Max Wright, Flybe's Director of Training said as he was presented the Award from the Minister of State “ This Beacon award is excellent proof of how industry and local colleges of further education can work together to optimise opportunities and secure investment in our young men and women. Flybe is proud to partner Exeter College with this prestigious programme and thrilled to receive this national tribute”.

Every year the AoC Beacon Awards provide national recognition for excellence and innovation within the Further Education sector. Chair of the AoC Beacon Awards, Dame Patricia Morgan Webb, said: These awards serve to highlight and celebrate the achievements of colleges and the impact they have on students, their families and the wider college community.”

Jan Hodges, CEO of Edge and sponsor of the Award said “The Exeter College initiative provides a highly regarded pathway into employment in the aerospace engineering sector. I congratulate them on their award and hope they continue to lead the way for other colleges across the UK.”